If the problem is life threatening or in need of immediate help:
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If you recognize the problem is urgent (for help identifying, see signs and behaviors below):
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If you recognize that a colleague is in trouble (for help identifying, see signs and behaviors below):
- Call the Peer Assistance Hotline: 800-654-5167
- Call for peer assistance in your state
- Follow workplace policy for guidance
- Contact your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) representative
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Signs and Behaviors of Impaired Colleagues
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Alcohol and drug misuse are progressive diseases. Substance and alcohol abuse can shatter lives. The consequences for nurse anesthetists and other healthcare professionals include:
Damage to personal, physical, and mental health; Workplace mistakes; Impaired decision making threatens patient safety; Risk of malpractice; Felony convictions; Loss or restrictions on nursing license; Prohibited from practice as a CRNA; Financial loss; Family distress and ultimate loss; Accidents; and, Death.
Substance related disorders are influenced by multiple factors including genetic predisposition, environmental stressors, social pressure, personality characteristics, and underlying medical or psychiatric conditions.
A variety of treatment and rehabilitation programs are available on an inpatient and outpatients basis, SAMHSA Treatment Centers.
Information brochure from SAMHSA, Are You In Recovery from Alcohol or Drug Problems? Know Your Rights.
Professionals who voluntarily seek help do have options that may reduce the consequences. Information on peer assistance in your state includes state regulations, alternative programs,
nurses assisting nurses, and state peer advisors. It is recommended that individuals seek legal assistance for licensure issues with their state Board of Nursing. The American Association of Nurse Attorneys (TAANA) referral hotline 866-807-7133 can provide names of attorneys who specialize in licensure defense before the Board of Nursing in your state. Additionally, you can visit the TAANA Searchable Directory to find a nurse attorney for many different specialties.
Note: The links above to resources outside the AANA website are included as a convenience and do not imply endorsement. The AANA is not responsible for any content on these websites.
For a list of the many peer assistance resources available on this website
return to www.AANAPeerAssistance.com
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